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Letting Go of What You Can’t Control and Embracing What You Can

Life is full of things that test our peace—others’ opinions, weather, the past, even traffic. These daily frustrations can steal our joy and weigh down our hearts. But what if you could reclaim your freedom by switching your focus?

🌱 Things We CAN’T Control

  • Other people’s opinions — Proverbs 29:25 reminds us it’s safer to trust God than chase approval.
  • The past — Philippians 3:13 urges us to forget what’s behind and press forward.
  • Unplanned setbacks — Proverbs 16:9 reassures that while we plan, God orders our steps.
  • Circumstances like weather, schedules, even aging — Psalm 37:23 shows us God cares in every season.

Instead of wrestling with the unchangeable, we can redirect our energy to what truly matters…


Things We CAN Control

  1. Our Attitude
    “In your relationships have the same mindset as Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5). Choosing gratitude shapes our response to life’s storms.
  2. Our Mindset
    “Do not conform to the pattern of this world…” (Romans 12:2). Renewing your mind daily keeps you anchored in truth.
  3. Our Reactions
    A gentle answer can change the atmosphere (Proverbs 15:1). Choosing calm in chaos is powerful.
  4. Our Effort
    Whatever we do, we do it for the Lord (Colossians 3:23). Even small tasks have meaning.
  5. Our Friendships
    Surround yourself with wise, faith-filled people (Proverbs 13:20). Community matters.
  6. Our Boundaries
    Guard your heart—what you allow in, truly matters (Proverbs 4:23).
  7. Our Surrender
    “Submit yourselves… to God” (James 4:7). Surrender is the greatest control we can exercise.
  8. Our Faith
    Faith isn’t passive—it’s choosing trust even when we don’t understand (Hebrews 11:6).

What This Feels Like in Days Like Today

  • When plans fall apart, you choose peace instead of panic.
  • When someone criticizes, you respond in grace not guilt.
  • When fear knocks, you turn to truth instead of anxiety.
  • You keep moving, keep praying, keep stepping ahead—even if progress is small.

Scripture of Hope

1 Peter 5:7“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
This isn’t just advice—it’s an invitation to trade our worry for His care.


Take-Home Practice

  • Today, pause and name one thing you can’t control—then release it to God.
  • Then, decide on one thing you can—your tone, your time, your thoughts—and step forward in faith.

Let’s Chat:

What’s one small step you’re choosing to control today—and what are you letting go of?

With trust and purpose,
Dana

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Dana Onye is a Christian children’s author, resource creator, and mum of four. She’s passionate about helping families grow in faith through books, printables, and tools rooted in truth, identity, and everyday discipleship. Dana also equips aspiring Christian authors with guidance to write and publish biblically sound books that impact the next generation.
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Best-Selling Author & Faith-Based Creator
Through stories, devotionals, and tools for kids, parents and authors, I share Christ-centred resources that spark imagination, strengthen identity, and equip families to live out their faith with joy.